International Sex Workers Day with the Josephine Butler Society 2024
31st May 2024
About the Event
Join us for our free annual event!
This year we are proud to be hosting a presentation which will reveal findings from a large comparative research project, as well as talks from two guest speakers!
Scroll down to read more about the speakers.
13:00-17:00
This year we are proud to be hosting a presentation by Prof. Teela Sanders and Jessica Hyer Griffin which will reveal findings from a large comparative research project, as well as talks from two guest speakers!
Consent in Sex Work: responding to unwanted sexual contact.
Prof. Teela Sanders and Jessica Hyer Griffin
This presentation will reveal findings from a large comparative research project regarding sexual violence in sex work populations across UK, US and New Zealand. We focus on the UK findings relating to how unwanted sexual contact in the experience of sex workers involves stealthing (removal of condom), under and non-payment as well as other forms of sexual assault. We review a range of recommendations from the project for practitioners in health, criminal justice and support services which challenge stigma, provide a more appropriate service and does not reinforce ‘occupational hazard’ myths around violence in sex work.
About the Speakers
Teela Sanders is Professor of Criminology and currently Dean for Research and Enterprise for the College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities at the University of Leicester. She is a leading international scholar in research on the intersections between gender, regulation, governance and crime, specifically in the sex industry. Sanders has written 8 books, edited 10, and has over 60 peer reviewed journal articles, based on research projects funded from major research councils. She has been the academic lead on the NPCC sex work and policing working group for the past ten years.
Techintimacy: Exploring the Intersection of Sex Work and Technology
Harper Thornhill
Harper Thornhill, an accomplished and professionally esteemed Dominatrix from Bristol, is a force to be reckoned with. She tirelessly champions advocacy efforts and supports Sex Worker Union initiatives, serving as a Committee representative. Her influence extends across both UK and EU political landscapes, highlighted by her pivotal role in convening a groundbreaking conference that united academics, sex workers, and government agencies to impact the visibility of sex workers in the Online Safety Act 2023.
Jessica Hyer Griffin is founder, CEO and support lead at Support for Student Sex Workers - a confidential sex worker led peer support organisation which provides support to anyone who identifies with the sex work community. She has recently trained as an ISVA and is carrying out work in prisons and as a researcher in various projects.
Social Links
Website Bio: https://le.ac.uk/people/teela-sanders
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CriminologyLeic
Harper’s influence reaches across multiple platforms as she proudly represents the industry on television, radio, and in print. Her unwavering dedication to advancing sex worker rights and visibility ensures that diverse voices and experiences within the community are authentically portrayed in mainstream conversations.
Drawing from her extensive background in sex work and her adept brand management skills, Harper provides invaluable mentorship to her peers. Her guidance fosters a culture of safe kink practices and empowers fellow workers to cultivate thriving businesses, ensuring a resilient and vibrant community.
Social Links
Website: https://countessdiamond.co.uk/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecountessdiamond
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecountessdia2
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1cn0r8U8FlaEtYx94YoYhw
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thecountessdia
TransActions Project: Experiences of Trans sex workers in healthcare settings
Dr. Mary Laing
Dr Mary Laing (University of York) and Del Beach-Campbell (Josephine Butler Society, and Delversity) will present on the TransActions project. TransActions is a project which focuses on the material realities of trans people who sell sex. Their presentation will focus on the experiences of trans sex workers in healthcare spaces and will ask what we can learn from trans sex workers to provide good care.
Social Links
Website: https://transactionsproject.wordpress.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmarylaing
Doors open at 13:00, talks begin at 13:30
Followed by a walk to Crossbones Graveyard to remember sex workers. Ribbons will be provided for those who wish to join us.
Refreshments will be available and the venue is accessible with toilets.
Please note whilst there is a bar near the entrance to the venue, we will not be providing alcohol.
How to Attend
This event is free to attend. There is no need to book, just turn up.
If you have any questions, please email: info@josephinebutlersociety.org
Arch 23, 45 Southwark St, London SE1 9HP